IOS SAGAR
India’s Ocean mission expands: IOS SAGAR exits Phuket after key naval drills
The Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR, onboard INS Sunayna, departed Phuket, Thailand, on April 17, 2026, after completing a high-tempo three-day Operational Turnaround (OTR), marking the successful conclusion of its second port call during the ongoing deployment.
During the visit, IOS SAGAR undertook a range of professional, strategic and cultural engagements with the Royal Thai Navy, significantly strengthening bilateral naval cooperation. Commander Siddharth Chaudhary, Commanding Officer of INS Sunayna, called on Rear Admiral Sathaporn Wajarat, Chief of Staff of the Third Naval Area Command, reaffirming the shared commitment to maritime collaboration.
Professional and interpersonal ties were further enhanced through a friendly football match and a joint yoga session involving personnel from both navies.
A formal deck reception hosted onboard the vessel was attended by senior naval dignitaries, providing a platform to exchange perspectives on the IOS SAGAR mission and discuss regional maritime security. The ship was also opened to visitors, promoting people-to-people connections.
Operational synergy was demonstrated during a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with HTMS Klongyai, which included communication drills and formation manoeuvres.
The exercise highlighted seamless coordination and “plug-and-play” interoperability between the two navies.
The visit underscores the strong and enduring maritime partnership between India and Thailand, aligned with the MAHASAGAR vision of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
IOS SAGAR has now set course for Jakarta, Indonesia, for its next port of call, continuing its mission to enhance maritime cooperation in the Southeast Indian Ocean region.
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